John Chisum’s new songwriting book begins with a familiar declaration: God gave me a song. What follows, he argues, requires practice, feedback and the willingness to rewrite.
Written with Elizabeth Elkins, “God Gave Me a Song, Now What?” is now available on Amazon. The 110-page book draws on Chisum’s experience as a songwriter, publishing executive and founder of Nashville Christian Songwriters.
According to the announcement, it combines practical advice for aspiring writers with Chisum’s personal story and accounts from songwriters he has mentored. Its central concern is how writers develop their abilities while navigating the music business with integrity.
John Chisum on Inspiration and Revision
In the book’s preface, Chisum describes songwriting as both a spiritual calling and a practical responsibility. He pairs inspiration with discipline and devotion with the work of revision. His aim is to help writers develop stronger songs, find community and become more deliberate about using their gifts.
That approach places the emphasis on a writer’s development over time. Chisum challenges the expectation that one song, a shortcut or an algorithm will suddenly produce a career. He instead asks writers to consider the habits and commitments that support their work.
The book also traces the experiences behind that perspective. The announcement describes Chisum’s account of a difficult upbringing, drug and alcohol abuse before his conversion, and the professional successes and setbacks that followed. Those experiences sit alongside stories from writers who have participated in Nashville Christian Songwriters’ training.
A Career in Songs and Publishing
Chisum founded Nashville Christian Songwriters in 2015. The organization provides coaching and resources for songwriters, extending the work he previously did in publishing and song development.
His industry roles have included director of song development and copyright at Integrity Music and vice president of publishing at Star Song Communications. His songs have been recorded by artists including the Gaither Vocal Band, Ron Kenoly, Steve Green, Larnelle Harris and the Cathedrals, according to his biography.
He also hosts and produces “Song Revolution,” which expanded from a podcast to Cornerstone Television earlier this year. The program features conversations with songwriters, recording artists and worship leaders.